BUILDING A GLOBAL COLLABORATION

Our principal aim at SUNRISE is to build a long-term sustainable energy collaboration between the UK and India. The project will be led by Swansea University but combine the best of British and Indian solar expertise from leading institutions in both countries. Equal partnership and joint research will be the focus in order to ensure a valuable and enduring alliance. Vitally, the project will also work with several industrial partners. With India projected to become the world's third largest economy by 2030, making links to Indian companies is key to creating lasting research partnerships for both nations.

DEVELOPING RESEARCH CAPABILITY

Our world-leading solar experts from across India and the UK will be developing and evaluating low-cost solar technology, with a particular focus on flexible, thin film photovoltaics. They will also be investigating other technologies that harness the sun's rays, including electrical storage devices, energy efficient lighting, water purification techniques, and biomass utilization methods.

Most importantly, key to the success of the project will be to ensure the development of research and delivery capabilities. For this purpose, a co-created doctorate programme based on the UK Engineering Doctorate model will be established in India. This training scheme will promote better engagement between Indian academia and industry and become the lasting legacy of the project.

CREATING SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES

Finally, we will apply our state-of-the-art technology to real-life contexts. A series of demonstrator buildings will be constructed in rural India, in a minimum of five off-grid villages. Each demonstrator will incorporate the technology needed to operate as a complete sustainable energy system, from solar-powered lighting to water decontamination. Furthermore, each building will be tailored for its own unique environment. Constructed using local supply chains where possible, these buildings will prove how global science can be applied to the benefit of local communities and industries.